Cost of Replacing a Lost Car Key

If you lose your car key, you need to know the different costs involved. You can get a copy of a car key from any hardware store, but a smart key might require you to go to a locksmith or dealer.

There are ways to save money if your fob is not damaged and doesn't require reprogramming.

1. Key Type

Car keys have an uncanny ability to disappear from the most unexpected places. If they disappear from your pocket while shopping, get wedged between the sofa cushions, or fall into the crack of the back seat, they're always a little difficult to locate. In the past, this meant that you could just pop into your local hardware store or auto locksmith and purchase a new replacement.

Today it can be an expensive proposition in the case of a vehicle that is equipped with modern technology, such as key fob technology or push-to-start. Key fobs or remote transmitters that work with these systems are tiny electronic devices, and they're packed with electronics that can be quite costly to replace if you lose them.

This is why you should think about purchasing the replacement of your key fob insurance plan that covers up to $400 per lost or stolen key. These plans typically cost a fraction of the total replacement costs and include unlimited key replacements for lost or stolen keys along with additional benefits such as towing coverage and roadside assistance, to name a few.

The type of key you're using also impacts the cost, with some types being more expensive to replace than others. For instance, simple metal keys that don't have a key fob are quite affordable, since they're mechanical and can be easily replaced by an expert locksmith or mechanic. If your key is equipped with a transponder chip, it'll require specialized equipment to duplicate. These devices are typically available at dealerships or car manufacturers and can be a major factor in the overall cost.

Laser cut keys are yet another factor that could increase the Cost Replacement Car Key of a replacement car keys replacements key, because they are typically heavier than regular keys. They are fashioned from metal that is molded into a specific shape and are then cut using lasers that are precise to ensure a perfect fit.

2. Key Fob

The loss of your car keys used to be a minor issue. A locksmith or car dealer could sell keys to replace them that was likely to be affordable. As cars have technologically advanced and so do their keys. This means that replacing a lost or damaged key could be more expensive.

Key fobs became popular during the '90s as an extra feature that allowed car owners to lock and unlock their vehicle without a physical key. The small plastic fobs have a button that, when pressed sends a signal to the computer of the vehicle to lock or unlock it. Some are equipped with buttons that activate the vehicle's security system or open the trunk.

A key that is not fitted with a fob is similar to those that were made prior to the '90s and it can be cut by an automotive locksmith for a small fee. Some locksmiths will replace your lost fob while they wait.

Fobs with transponders or another computer chip may be more expensive to replace than conventional ones. These can cost upwards of $200 to reprogram and connect to the new car and are typically only available through the original dealer.

Many businesses that work with vehicles, such as auto repair shops, car dealerships, and salvage yards could end up with quite a few spare fobs that aren't attached to a specific vehicle. Some of these are available to the public, whereas others require special equipment or technical skills to program. This isn't something that the average person can do. It's best to always keep an extra key in your pocket or purse. You can also add GEICO Emergency Roadside Service as part of your policy to make things easier in the event of need.

3. Keys Laser Cut Keys Keys

Contrary to traditional mechanical keys laser-cut keys feature deeper grooves and ridges. This makes them harder for car thieves.

Key blades feature two slits which allow the key to be put into the ignition cylinder as well as the door lock from either side. These are the most popular car keys available today. They are more popular than key fobs, due to their greater security and ease of use.

If you're thinking of cutting a key using lasers for your car key cover replacement, it's essential to make sure the company cutting keys has the proper equipment. You'll end up with an unusable key that doesn't work properly when you don't. You should also be aware of the quality of the blade, because poor quality blades can cause damage to the cutting mechanism of the key or even break within your ignition cylinder.

To cut a laser-cut keys, the locksmith will require your vehicle identification number (VIN). Once they have your VIN, they will run the data through a computer in order to determine the specifications of your vehicle. They can then use an CNC machine to cut the key according to these specifications.

These keys require special machinery to make, and they are usually only available at dealerships. They are more affordable than traditional key fobs, however, they also have the added benefit of being hard to duplicate.

The cost of labor for a typical laser-cut all-in-one key could range from $150 to $250. This is due to the fact that these types of keys must be programmed at the dealership. They are nevertheless one of the most secure and reliable keys for cars available today.

4. Switchblade Keys

Many modern vehicles use key fobs to lock and unlock doors, and turn on the engine. Contrary to the older mechanical keys which work mechanically and are easily duplicated by key cutters or locksmiths the newer keys for cars have transponder chips built in which must be linked with the vehicle by a dealer or an auto locksmith. These keys can be more expensive. They range between $50 and $100 in the basic version up to $200 for models with push-to-start functions.

Fobs with what's referred to as a switchblade key replacements for cars, which folds up when not in use. typically, they cost more to replace. The keys are equipped with shanks that retract into the fob, and then is released at the push of a button when needed. They are generally more secure than traditional keys, making them a powerful deterrent for thieves. They are also a good alternative for those who require an extra car key for valet usage. The cost of changing these keys varies between $100-$300, depending on the vehicle and the type.

The electronic keys are lighter and more user-friendly than the old crank keys that were extremely heavy, complicated and hazardous to use. They are also more difficult to steal as they are cylindrical, a feature that helps to prevent the use of key-duplicate devices used by criminals to create illicit copies of the keys to your car.

These wholly electronic car keys communicate electronically to open the doors and begin the engine - some are able to do this without having to be removed from the pocket of the driver. The process of changing these kinds of keys for cars can be expensive and will usually require a visit to the dealership, which may or may not include a towing fee.

5. Transponder Keys

Unlike mechanical keys, transponder keys contain a chip within them that transmits a radio frequency signal to the car when it is inserted into the ignition. The signal is then analyzed by the vehicle's computer system to determine whether it is in line with the serial number of the key. If it matches the serial number, the vehicle will let the key to unlock the door and also start the engine. The idea behind this is to deter car theft by making it harder to wire a car and start the engine.

Theoretically, this technology is effective, but smart car thieves always find ways to beat it. The chips in these keys aren't as durable as people think. They are able to be easily washed out, resulting in the key not functioning.

The cost of replacing transponder keys could be high. The key blank itself could cost upwards of $50 and then you have the additional expense of programming it. This process requires a special machine that's only found in dealerships for cars.

It is therefore best to employ a professional locksmith who has the tools to program transponder keys. It is also an excellent idea to have all the information for your vehicle, including the year and make, as well as the model. This will help ensure that the correct key blank is used, which will save you money in the long run. Locksmiths can program a transponder keys typically for $150, but for cars with push-to-start capabilities with key fobs and remote transmitters, it could cost as high as $180. These keys require a special programming service that can be performed only by a licensed locksmith.